The Hereford pig, usually also known by the name of Hog Hereford. It is a breed that is considered domestic, and its name comes from the physical similarity it has with the Hereford breed of cattle. The Hereford pig breed is a beautiful red and white developed in the Midwest of the United States. It was perfected in Lowa and Nebraska during the 1920s because of the Duroc league, Chester White, in addition to Polish pig blood in China.
The first development of this breed was carried out in the first 5 years of the 20s, and it was not until the mid-30s when the official record Hereford pork was opened. The Hereford is a breed of pig that gets its name from its color and pattern, which resembles the coat of cattle. They are medium-size with drooping ears as well as a curly tail too!
Characteristics of Hereford Pig
The Hereford is a medium-sized pig. The ears are drooping and medium. Also, the face is slightly flat, the neck is not very long and the jaws are hanging. Some specimens lose strength and uniformity in the dorsal arch and therefore lack harmony. The body of this pig is reddish. Must have a white face, no less than 2/3 red on face and ears. A minimum of two white limbs and one inch above the hoof. The color red can vary from light to dark.
The ideal coat is the white face. Ears, four limbs, white belly, and tail. Also, the deep red color is the preferred one. The animal is disqualified with a clincher or more than 1/3 of white on the face and ears. It is important to clarify that both the face, the ears and the feet are white. It is one of the most versatile heritage breeds, as it is good both in isolation and in barnyard situations. You may also like to read Duroc Pig.
They are good mothers and fast-growing, and their tranquility, docile disposition makes them a good choice for projects. They are a medium-large swine breed, and usually, weigh 90 to 120 kilos from 5 to 6 months of age. The females of this species weigh around 280 kilos.
While the males weigh 370 kilos. This breed can live between 6 to 9 years. The supporters of the race consider it arrogant. No less than 90% of the descendants of matings with Hereford carry the characteristic color. The females are prolific and good breeders compared to other breeds. They do not accumulate excessive fat but cannot be considered as Bacon type. Hereford breeders refer to these pigs as “The ham type pig”. They are good at grazing, transformers, and fast fattening.
Usage
Due to its size, and the good taste of the meat of this breed and the few expenses that this species presents, Hereford Pig has become a multipurpose breed. Due to the taste and low amount of fat that meat has, this species is succulent for consumers. In addition, this species produces very good hams.
This breed is easily domesticated, can eat food waste, as well as several elements of the environment that surrounds them. And in the same way, it generates a meat of very good flavor. When crossing it with other species it transmits the genes of growth to him, in the same way, something that remains present in the color of this species.
Food
Hereford Pig is an omnivore that feeds on plants and animals. They consume almost everything that is edible, such as fruits, roots, flowers, herbs, insects, worms, all kinds of meats, and even overs from the dining room table. You may also like to read Mangalitsa Pig.
Special Feature
Hereford Pig suffering from stress makes them susceptible to diseases such as pneumonia and bronchitis. This is also due to their small lungs in relation to their size. They are also susceptible to viruses of animal origin such as influenza. Commonly suffer from crazy itching, likewise are affected by lice, ticks and acarid worms. You may also like to read Kunekune Pig.
FAQ
Are Hereford pigs good meat?
Hereford pigs have been praised by farmers, chefs and food enthusiasts alike for their incredibly flavorful meat. Known for their intensely marbled red meat that is exceptionally juicy, Hereford pork has a flavor profile that’s unmatched by any other breed.
What makes Hereford pig unique?
Hereford pigs are a unique breed of pig known for their superior quality red meat, high feed efficiency and fast growth rate. Herefords are highly adaptable to a variety of climates, housing and management systems, which makes them attractive to the modern farmer. Hereford pigs have white faces with red muzzles and legs; however, the body is solid white or light in coloration. The ears of Herefords hang low on its head while their colored markings can range from pale yellow to dark red depending on genetics.
Are Hereford pigs good show pigs?
Absolutely! Hereford pigs are an excellent choice for show competitions. Not only are they relatively low maintenance compared to other pig breeds, but their docile personalities and hardiness make it easy for handlers to groom them for competition.
Conclusion
We hope that this guide has helped you in understanding the Hereford pig. They are a medium-sized breed with drooping ears and curly tails as well as red, white, or black coloring. If you’re interested in raising your own herd of these pigs for meat or show purposes, consider getting yourself one! Good luck finding the perfect hog to call your own!
As a reference: Wikipedia
